Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Strategic Partnering of IAF and Industry “Indair 2008” Concludes

To support the modernization and indigenization opportunities in IAF, a two day international seminar cum exhibition “INDAIR 2008” was organized at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The seminar was jointly conducted by Maintenance Command of IAF and CII. The event saw participation of reputed manufacturers of weapon system, both foreign and indigenous with the theme ‘Strategic partnering of IAF and industry on modernization and indegenisation’. The seminar was inaugurated by Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Sh AK Antony.

Speaking in his key note address, the Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal FH Major said,” India has an increasing role in world affairs, and in keeping with that, the Indian Air Force is in the midst of an exciting transformation. No nation can be a major power without a high level of technological capability and a capacity to meet basic need indigenously. Technology is the core of an Air Force. The IAF operates and maintains equipment across the entire spectrum, from the state of the art to the older generation. The coming decades are full of challenges. The IAF seeks to exploit space, handle smart weapons, use information management tools and other revolutionary technology”.

During the seminar, discussions on indigenization included a session each on airborne spares and aviation grade material. A special session was also devoted to avionics, testers and software and its criticality. The modernization plan by the IAF for its BRDs and EDs were discussed to provide inputs for wider participation of the industry during the implementation stage.

Two distinct needs of the IAF have been articulated.. One-the well understood small indigenization to meet the requirements of substitution of components from the existing fleets. The Second- indigenous contribution towards design and development of components for new acquisitions: further going on to development of systems.

The seminar, having focused on IAF requirements and possible areas of association with the industry, has brought out, beyond doubt, the potential of a vibrant Indian Industry. Alongside provisions for Govt bearing development cost, a very forthright expression from a few industries to share the risks is an exceptionally healthy sign. The resolution that together it would be possible to contribute towards the national goal of self reliance has come out most unambiguously.

“Today, Indian industry has matured significantly and its presence is being felt all over the world. Self reliance of the Indian Armed forces is a paramount importance to both the Govt and Indian industry. Ministry of Defence is committed to help defence forces in its pursuit of self reliance and modernization. Emerging technologies and synergisation of public and private industry with Defence will be of immense gain to achieve higher levels of preparedness in the Armed Forces besides effecting significant savings to the exchequer”.